Opportunities and Challenges for Small Island Developing States

The fact that oceans and seas matter for sustainable development is undeniable. Oceans and seas cover over two thirds of the earth's surface, provide food and minerals, generate oxygen, absorb greenhouse gases and keep in check climate change, determine weather patterns and temperatures, and serve as highways for sea-borne international trade.

The oceans economy is one that seeks to promote economic growth, environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and preservation of livelihoods.

At its core it refers to the de-coupling of socio-economic development of oceanic activities from environmental and ecosystems degradation.

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